Jesus’ ministry was a training course for those disciples who He appointed as apostles (Mark 3:14).  They did not know it at the time, but they would be the leaders of the Early Church.  They would all suffer for their faith and most would be martyred.  It was vital for them to see Jesus in action, to learn from Him (‘disciple’ means ‘learner’) and to be able to do what Jesus did after they had received the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8).

Jesus’ ministry prior to the cross was shorter than 3 years; but it has continued right up until now by those who were trained. The Twelve were called to be taught to minister like Jesus, and then teach others to do the same (2 Timothy 2:2). The training course was like an apprenticeship in which the Bible teaching Jesus gave in the synagogues each Sabbath was followed up with practical ministry examples.

Others were eager to learn too. Luke mentions many believing women, from the previously demonised Mary Magdalene to the wife of a high-ranking civil servant.  These were just a sample of the variety of grateful people whose lives had been transformed by Jesus.  For Joanna, following Jesus was also a potentially dangerous lifestyle because her husband's boss, Herod, had already executed John the Baptist for speaking the truth (Matthew 14:3-12).  But these women had one thing in common: they all helped to support Jesus and the band of disciples ‘out of their own means’.

An essential part of any ministry training is to abandon the idea that it is a job for which others should pay.  Christian leaders might need to be supported, and the Scriptures support the responsibility of those who are being served to support the people who minister to them (1 Timothy 5:18), but that is more of a gracious gift to be received with thanksgiving, than a right to demand.  Worldwide, most people serving in Christian ministry today largely support themselves and their own families.  Indeed, the starting point of all ministries is to serve in obedience to the Lord’s call - not for what we might get out of it (1 Peter 5:2).  Even on earth Jesus had nowhere He could call 'home' (Luke 9:58). These women did not seek anything for themselves, except the privilege of being able to learn as they served.  Alas, even some who aspire to ministry do not understand this.  People who serve the Lord faithfully will do so sacrificially. As with Jesus, the best teaching is often by example.